Himachal Pradesh: Fresh Snowfall Brings Cheer, Yellow Alert Issued
The higher reaches of Himachal Pradesh woke up to a fresh blanket of snow on Wednesday! Famous tourist spots like Narkanda, Kufri, Dalhousie, and Manali saw snowfall, bringing joy to hoteliers who hope for a boost in tourism. The snow also eased the worries of horticulturalists, as it’s great for apple crops. However, the snowfall wasn’t enough to completely end the dry spell that’s been affecting the state.
Snowfall Details: A White Wonderland
Some areas were luckier than others. Kothi saw a whopping 33 cm of snow, while Gondla got 11 cm. Keylong, Kukumseri, Bharmour, Manali, Jot, Kalpa, Shillaroo, and Khadrala also received significant snowfall. Shimla town got sleet, but nearby Jubbarhatti and Kufri enjoyed 8.3 cm and 4 cm of snow respectively. Saloni was the wettest, with 44.3 mm of rainfall.
Weather Alert: Thunderstorms and Fog
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a yellow alert for thunderstorms and lightning in several districts. Shimla, Jubbarhatti, Kangra, Jot, Bhuntar, Palampur, and Sundernagar experienced thunderstorms. A dense fog warning was also given for some areas. The fresh snow made roads slippery, with police in Lahaul and Spiti advising against unnecessary travel.
Impact on Tourism and Agriculture
The [[snowfall]] is definitely good news for the tourism sector. Hotels are hoping for a surge in visitors, and the picturesque snow-covered landscapes are sure to attract many tourists. For farmers, especially apple growers, the snow is a welcome relief after a dry spell. Snow is very important for apple [[cultivation]] in Himachal Pradesh.
Looking Ahead: More Snow on the Way?
The IMD has also predicted more western disturbances affecting northwest India from Saturday. Tabo in Lahaul and Spiti was the coldest place, with a minimum temperature of -4.3 degrees Celsius. The state’s rainfall deficit from January 1 to February 5 was a significant 73%, with only 26 mm of rain recorded against a normal of 96.7 mm. This latest snowfall is a much-needed addition to the water supply, but much more is needed.
Latest Updates and Travel Advisory
With the latest snowfall, travel conditions are tricky in some places. It’s very important for tourists and locals alike to check the weather forecast and road conditions before traveling. Safety should always come first. The latest updates from the IMD will help people make informed choices about travel plans and daily activities. Stay safe and enjoy the beauty of Himachal Pradesh if you are visiting.